It just takes 5

Posted May 11, 2012Adapted from FCHP's publication, Wellness Works

Do you find yourself feeling tense and stressed out during the day? For most of us, daily stress is the norm, not the exception. And when you’re stressed out, even the little annoyances in life can seem like huge things.

Stress itself is neither good nor bad. If we don’t learn to manage it, though, our physical health can suffer. Stress also leads many people to use unhealthy ways to cope – like smoking, binge-eating and excessive drinking.

Learn healthy ways to deal with stress, like this technique called “Take 5.”

Take 5

Easy to learn and simple to practice, try the “Take 5” method the next time a conflict comes up in your life:

Take 5 steps away from the situation. Put a little distance between yourself and the source of conflict. Quietly excuse yourself and go do something routine, such as refill your water bottle, use the restroom or check the mailbox.

Take 5 minutes to thoughtfully consider how (or if) to respond. Take a 5 minute walk or close your eyes and center yourself.

…and Thrive!

These steps are a great way to begin relieving stress the healthy way. Choosing unhealthy ways of coping with stress, even if they feel good at the time, end up creating more stress on your body and whole self.

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